We now have a face to go with the name of the man that will soon be winning the heart of CBI Agent Grace Van Pelt during Season 3 of “The Mentalist”. And what a lovely face it is. The role has been cast by none other than hottie Eric Winter, of “Brothers and Sisters” fame. (or as he is better known: Roselyn Sanchez’s smokin’ hot husband!)
“Winter’s character, Craig O’Laughlin, is described as a football player-turned-FBI guy who strikes up a flirtation with Amanda Righetti’s Rigsby-crushing agent.” according to Michael Ausiello
I can picture all types of juicy drama waiting for us as Mr. Winter’s character enters the picture in Season 3. Van-Pelt will likely still be vulnerable from her decision to break ties with ex-boyfriend Agent Rigsby. Let’s not even mention the fact that CBI and FBI are already known to have an inherent tension toward one another.
And our adorably cunning Patrick Jane won’t be able to resist needling them relentlessly which will make the episodes all the more fun!
I hear what Ausiello is saying about Winter being the best choice for this role, etc. I’ll go along with Van Pelt and O’Laughlin as a couple. For now. I’m a consummate Jane/Van Pelt shipper so don’t expect me to spend too much time dancing in the aisles over this announcement. 
